Local open carry advocate cuts NRA card in protest

The National Rifle Association is firing back at Texans who tote their guns in family friendly establishments. The nation's longest-standing civil rights organization released a statement saying some have crossed the line with "downright foolishness."

Author:
kjac , KBMT

Published:
9:55 AM CDT June 3, 2014

Updated:
9:55 AM CDT June 3, 2014

The National Rifle Association is firing back at Texans who tote their guns in family friendly establishments.

The nation's longest-standing civil rights organization released a statement saying some have crossed the line with "downright foolishness."

Disgusted by the NRA's statement, Derek Poe, owner of Golden Triangle Tactical, cut up and threw out his NRA membership card.

"I'm disgusted with the NRA. They're no longer a second amendment group," said Poe.

On the NRA's website, it says "The Lone Star State is second to none for its robust gun culture. We applaud Texans for that, but a small number have recently crossed the line from enthusiasm to downright foolishness...Using guns merely to draw attention to yourself in public not only defies common sense, it shows a lack of consideration and manners. That's not the Texas way. And that's certainly not the NRA way."

The statement went on to say that just because something can be done doesn't mean it should be done.

That same statement was brought to light in December when Poe was stopped inside Parkdale Mall by security for carrying an assault rifle draped across his back.

Poe claims he was just using his right to open carry while walking to his store, which at the time was located inside the mall.

Police say it alarmed shoppers who feared for their life.

Poe since packed up and moved his store to a new location across the street.

Two months after the move, a solicitation violation took place outside his store. A man dressed in a banana suit, holding an AK47, was promoting the store's grand opening.

The banana with a gun caused a stir with drivers.

Poe has also been active in local open carry marches, which sometimes travel right past popular family hangouts.

Recently, many restaurant chains have put a ban on concealed handguns on premises.

"It's funny after Burger King banned it, they had several robberies. So, it showed it didn't work," said Poe.

As for the NRA, Poe says he will no longer be a member of the organization and will only support groups who fully support the second amendment.

"It kind of sickens me that they did that. I don't see how they can say they're for second amendment and turn around and say something like that," he said.